Former MLB Prospect Drowns Heroically Rescuing Swimmers in South Carolina

Anderson "Chase" Childers, a 38-year-old former MLB prospect and ex-police officer, tragically lost his life while heroically rescuing swimmers caught in a rip current off Pawleys Island, South Carolina.

During a family vacation, Childers and another individual entered the ocean to assist a family of five in distress.

While the family and the other rescuer made it back to shore safely, Childers was swept away by the powerful current, drowning in front of his wife and three children.

His body was recovered approximately 90 minutes later by the Coast Guard.

Originally from Kennesaw, Georgia, Childers was a standout baseball player at North Cobb Christian High School and Georgia State University.

In 2009, he signed with the Baltimore Orioles and played in their minor league system.

After his baseball career, he served as a uniformed patrol officer with the Cobb County Police Department for over three years, earning the Life Saving Award in 2012.

A GoFundMe campaign established to support his family has raised over $70,000 as of Wednesday evening.

The campaign describes Childers as a devoted husband and father who displayed extraordinary courage and selflessness.

In response to this tragedy, Pawleys Island officials are implementing additional safety measures, including increased signage and life rings in areas prone to rip currents.

Authorities advise swimmers caught in a rip current to remain calm, swim parallel to the shore to escape the current, and then make their way back to land.

Childers' heroic actions and ultimate sacrifice have left a lasting impact on his community and beyond.

His bravery, kindness, and love will always be remembered.